Angkor Wat at Sunset
Angkor Wat is ranks among the foremost architectural
wonders of the world. Angkor at sunset is the classical image of this
impressive site. This was a challenging image to capture on an overcast
day.
Grand Walkway
This is the view from the temple down the grand walkway leading to it.
Angkor Wat within the main courtyard
The main tower to the right symbolizes the mythical Mount Meru which is
the center of the universe and represents heaven.
A lower Peak
The other four towers represent lesser peaks around Mount Meru.
Apsara Sculptures
These Apsara (heavenly nymph) appear on many walls in
the upper level of the temple. The breast are dark and shiny as a result
of many human touches with oily hands.
King Suryavarman II
According to guide books this Bas Relief carving is the image of king
Suryavarman II surrounded by 14 parasols. Suryavarman II was the builder
of Angkor Wat. I've been told there is some controversy on whether or not
this is the king. Nonetheless it is a grand image
Another Carving
This individual of great importance is riding an elephant and has 15 parasols.
Some would argue that this is actually the king since there is a greater
number of parasols and the image is in the center of the wall vice toward
the end.
Wall of the Dead
This is a partial image of the Wall of the Dead. The wall is in three
layers. Those on the top are on the fast track to meet Yama the judge
of the dead. The next row down are the rich and wealthy who have paid
their dues to the temple and don't fear judgment. Those on the bottom
have to be dragged by the demons of the underworld to meet the many judges
needed for the riff raff.
Ta Prohm Temple Entrance
The gateway to the Ta Prohm temple sports and impressive stone head
Close-up of Ta Prohm Entrance
Massive Banyan Trees
The Ta Prohm temple is a fascinating depiction of man
versus nature. The temple has been invaded by huge banyan trees. The
trees and the temple walls have blended to become one. This tree is
only half it's original height thanks to a lightning strike.
Massive Roots
The massive scale of the tree roots can be seen here
in comparison with the size of my guide sitting nearby.
Within Ta Prohm Temple
Gateway to Angkor Thom
This is one of the gateways to Angkor Thom which was
the last capital of the Khmer empire. The ancient city is surrounded
by 8 meter height walls extending 3 kilometers on each side.
Bridge Statues
These statues line the bridge to the Angkor Thom entrance gate.
Banteay Srey
Also know as the Citadel of Women, Banteay Srey is a magnificent temple
located about 45 minutes driving from Angkor Wat. This 10th century temple
Hindu temple is dedicated to Shiva. The pink sandstone is sculpted to
perfection.
Bayon Temple
PhotoMann remembers this as the temple of faces. It features 200 large
carved stone faces on 54 towers. This image has eight fully visible stone
faces.
Bayon Temple Faces
A close-up showing two of the 200 faces in this spectacular temple.
Phnom Krom Temple
The ruins of this 9th century temple sit a top a commanding
hill overlooking Tonle Sap lake. It's located about 12 kilometers from
Siem Reap along the Siem Reap river. There are three main buildings
dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma.
View from Phnom Krom
Monk near Phnom Krom
This monk was near the modern day temple just below the Phnom Krom summit.
Craftsman
This old craftsman was sitting with his tools near Phnom Krom temple.
Making Lunch
This woman was preparing the ingredients to be cooked for lunch.
Floating Home
This is typical of floating homes in the fishing village at the base of
Phnom Krom.
Home on Stilts
When the lake level rises it comes close to the floor
boards!
Children of the fishing village
Enter Picture Description
Beautiful Khmer Girl
This girl was resting in the shade as we strolled through
the fishing village.
TV Repair
My guide, Graham, is see here in front of a mobile
TV repair shop in the fishing village. There is no electricity in the
village so the televisions are powered by car batteries. The proprietor
of this shop was an Army major who lost his legs to a landmine.
Phnom Krom
The view of Phnom Krom hill from the fishing village. Most of the boats
seen here are for transportation and tourism vice fishing.
Village View
Another view from the fishing village across the waterway to Phnom Krom
hill.
Mother and Daughter
This mother and daughter were relaxing at the entrance to their small
home.
Drying Fish
Fish can be seen drying on the roof of this floating home.
Ice Shaver
This colorful machine is used to shave ice from blocks
for cold slush drinks.
Family Transportation
Cambodian Children Watching TV
These children are watching a TV that was a generous
gift from my guide to a family he knows well. Six or seven of these
kids are brothers and sisters. The rest of neighbors that came to check
out the TV.
Public Service and Advertising
This Coke sponsored billboard warns of the landmine
hazard. It basically says in words and pictures to be careful where
you are walking. If you find a landmine mark it and tell someone. If
you find yourself surrounded by mines you shouldn't move... call out
for help instead. Then have a Coke!
Suggested Cambodia Travel Guides
(Order Through Amazon Books - Click on the book name)
Insight
Compact Guide Cambodia
The Insight Pocket Guide series of books is my favorite
for short stays at any destination. The book highlights the must see
destinations in full day and half day itineraries. This includes detailed
maps and suggested walking routes. This guide is a must have especially
for a short visit.
Lonely
Planet Cambodia
As with most Lonely Planet guides, this Cambodia edition
is an invaluable resource for planning your journey. It offers you
the most up-to-date information about where to go and where to avoid,
how to get there and get around, where to stay at a reasonable rate.
The guide provides everything you'll need to know for a rewarding
visit.
Adventure
Cambodia: An Explorer's Travel Guide
This travel guide includes clear directions for travelers
both on motorcycles and local transportation, highlighting sights
and destinations far off the beaten track--the wild Cardamom Mountains
on the Thai border, the breathtaking Preah Vihear Temple in Cambodia's
most remote province, and the magnificent Bousra waterfall and river
gorge in the forests of Mondulkiri. It includes government maps of
every province and large city and 27 town maps surveyed by the authors.
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